Shoulder Instability

If your shoulder feels loose, slips out of place, or dislocates during activity, you may be experiencing shoulder instability. At Iowa Ortho, our shoulder specialists offer expert care to restore stability, relieve pain, and help you return to work, sports, and everyday life.

What is shoulder instability?

Shoulder instability occurs when the ball of the shoulder joint (humeral head) moves partially or completely out of the socket (glenoid). Because the shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, it is also the most prone to instability.

Instability may be the result of a traumatic injury, repetitive overhead activity, or looseness of the ligaments that support the joint.

Causes & risk factors

Shoulder instability may develop from:

• Traumatic injury – a fall, sports collision, or accident that dislocates the shoulder
• Repetitive overhead use – throwing sports, swimming, or weightlifting
• Ligament laxity – naturally loose ligaments or hypermobility
• Previous shoulder dislocation – increases risk of future instability

Common symptoms

Patients with shoulder instability may notice:

• A sensation that the shoulder feels “loose” or may slip out of place
• Recurrent dislocations or subluxations (partial dislocations)
• Shoulder pain during activity, especially overhead or throwing motions
• Weakness and limited range of motion
• Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity after a dislocation episode

Diagnosis

At Iowa Ortho, diagnosis begins with a thorough exam and medical history. Your provider may test the shoulder’s stability and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans help evaluate bone structure, ligament damage, and associated injuries like labral tears.

Treatment options

Non-surgical treatment

Mild instability may be treated with:

• Rest & activity modification – avoiding movements that trigger instability
• Immobilization after a dislocation to allow healing
• Physical therapy to strengthen the rotator cuff and stabilizing muscles
• Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief

Surgical treatment

If instability is recurrent or severe, surgery may be recommended. Procedures include:

• Arthroscopic labral repair (Bankart repair) – reattaching torn labrum and ligaments
• Capsular tightening – tightening stretched or loose ligaments
• Bone graft procedures for significant bone loss or repeated dislocations

Recovery & outlook

• Many patients improve with physical therapy and activity changes.
• After surgery, recovery usually involves immobilization followed by a structured rehabilitation program.
• With proper treatment, most patients return to sports and activities with restored stability and function.

Why choose Iowa Ortho?

• Specialized shoulder care from fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons with expertise in complex instability cases
• Comprehensive care, including advanced imaging, therapy, and surgery
• Individualized treatment plans for athletes, workers, and active patients
• Trusted orthopedic care serving Central Iowa communities

Take the next step

If your shoulder feels unstable, slips, or dislocates, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further injury.

Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online with a shoulder specialist.